In an increasingly interconnected world, the reliance on digital communication has grown,
and with it, the threat posed by cybercriminals. Phishing and social engineering have emerged as two of the most effective tactics used to exploit both individuals and businesses. These scams come in various forms, from the well-known phishing emails to more sophisticated attacks such as vishing and quishing.

The prevalence of these scams can be attributed to their ability to prey on human psychology, manipulating emotions like fear, urgency, and trust. By recognising these tactics and understanding how they operate, you can better protect yourself and your business from falling victim to their traps. In this article, we will explore the most common phishing and social engineering methods, explain how they work, and offer practical steps to stay safe.

What is Phishing?

Phishing is a type of cyberattack that relies on deceptive emails, messages, or websites to steal sensitive information such as passwords, financial details, or even personal identity information. Despite years of warnings, phishing remains highly effective because scammers are constantly improving their techniques to make their communications look legitimate.

The fundamental goal of phishing is to trick the recipient into believing the communication is from a trusted source. These attacks can be highly convincing, often imitating well-known brands, financial institutions, or even government agencies. Below are some of the most common types of phishing attacks.

Types of Phishing

Email Phishing
One of the most widespread forms of phishing, email phishing involves sending fraudulent emails to a large number of people, hoping that at least a few will take the bait. These emails typically impersonate trusted organisations like banks or online services and contain messages designed to prompt action.

Example: You receive an email claiming that your Amazon account has been suspended due to suspicious activity. The email provides a link where you can “verify your account.” The link takes you to a fraudulent website that looks exactly like Amazon’s login page. If you enter your credentials, they are immediately stolen.

Signs of Email Phishing:

• Generic greetings like “Dear Customer” instead of addressing you by name.
• Urgent language pressuring you to act quickly (e.g. “Your account will be suspended unless you respond immediately”).
• Suspicious attachments or links.

Spear Phishing
Spear phishing is a more targeted form of phishing, where the attacker personalises the email to a specific individual or organisation. These emails are usually crafted with great attention to detail, often including the target’s name, position, or other personal information, making them much harder to detect.

Example: A senior accountant at a company receives an email that appears to be from their CFO, asking for an urgent wire transfer. The email uses familiar language and refers to an ongoing project to make the request seem authentic.

How to Spot Spear Phishing:

• Double-check the sender’s email address. Fraudulent emails often use a slight variation of a legitimate address.
• Look for requests that seem unusual or out of character, even if they appear to come from someone you know.
• If you’re unsure, always verify the request by contacting the person directly via phone or in person.

Clone Phishing
In this variation, the attacker creates an almost identical copy of a legitimate email that you have previously received. The attacker clones the original message but replaces the attachments or links with malicious ones.

Example: You received a legitimate email last week with an invoice from a supplier. Today, you get what seems like the same email, but the attachment has been replaced with malware. Because the email looks identical to the previous one, you may be tempted to open it without thinking twice.

How to Recognise Clone Phishing:

• Look for small differences in the email’s language or layout, as attackers often miss minor details when cloning.
• Always be cautious with attachments and links, especially if you weren’t expecting them.
• Use a trusted antivirus program that scans attachments before you open them.

Whaling
Whaling is a highly targeted form of spear phishing, typically aimed at high-profile individuals within an organisation, such as CEOs or CFOs. These attacks are designed to steal sensitive corporate information or authorise fraudulent financial transactions.

Example: A CEO receives an email that appears to be from the company’s legal department, requesting confidential financial details in relation to a lawsuit. The email is crafted to be convincing, using legal jargon and mimicking the company’s internal communication style.

Defending Against Whaling:

• Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of security for high-level executives.
• Train senior staff to recognise phishing tactics and encourage them to question unexpected requests for sensitive information.
• Ensure that high-value financial transactions require multiple levels of approval.

What is Social Engineering?

While phishing often relies on digital communication, social engineering encompasses a broader range of tactics, many of which involve direct interaction with the target. The aim of social engineering is to manipulate individuals into revealing confidential information or performing actions that compromise their security. The success of social engineering lies in exploiting human emotions, such as trust, fear, and curiosity.

Common Social Engineering Techniques

Pretexting
Pretexting is a form of social engineering where the attacker fabricates a scenario to obtain sensitive information from the target. The scammer will often impersonate someone the victim knows or trusts, such as a co-worker, IT support, or a government official.

Example: An attacker calls an employee, pretending to be from the company’s HR department, and asks for personal details to “verify” their records. The employee, trusting the authority of HR, complies, unaware that they’re speaking to a scammer.

How to Spot Pretexting:

• Be cautious when someone asks for personal or sensitive information over the phone or via email, even if they claim to be from a trusted source.
• Verify the person’s identity by contacting them through official channels, such as a company phone directory.

Baiting
Baiting is a technique where the attacker offers something enticing to lure the victim into compromising their security. This can come in the form of free downloads, media files, or even physical devices left in public places.

Example: A USB drive labelled “Confidential: Company Financials” is left on a table in your office lobby. Out of curiosity, an employee plugs it into their computer to see what’s inside, unknowingly introducing malware into the company’s network.

Preventing Baiting Attacks:

• Educate employees about the dangers of using unknown USB drives or downloading unsolicited files.
• Install security software that can detect and block malware from external
  devices.

Quishing (QR Code Phishing)
Quishing is a newer form of phishing that involves the use of malicious QR codes. Scammers may distribute these QR codes via emails, posters, or other forms of media, encouraging victims to scan them with their phones. Once scanned, the victim is taken to a fraudulent website designed to steal personal information or install malware.

Example: You receive a flyer advertising a “free meal” at a popular restaurant if you scan the QR code to download the voucher. When you scan it, you are taken to a fake website that asks for your credit card information to claim the offer.

How to Defend Against Quishing:

• Be cautious when scanning QR codes from unknown sources or unsolicited messages.
• Use a mobile security app that can scan and verify QR code links before you visit them.

Vishing (Voice Phishing)
Vishing, or voice phishing, involves attackers making phone calls to their victims, posing as legitimate institutions like banks, government agencies, or tech support. They typically use scare tactics to convince the victim to share sensitive information over the phone.

Example: A scammer calls, claiming to be from your bank’s fraud department. They inform you of “suspicious activity” on your account and request that you confirm your account details and security PIN. In reality, they are gathering the information to steal your identity.

Signs of a Vishing Attack:

• Callers pressuring you for immediate action or using scare tactics.
• Requests for sensitive information like passwords, account numbers, or PINs.
• Caller ID spoofing to make it appear as though the call is coming from a
• legitimate organisation.

Smishing (SMS Phishing)
Smishing uses text messages as a vector to deliver phishing attacks. These messages often claim to be from trusted sources like banks, government bodies, or delivery services, urging the recipient to click on a link or provide information.

Example: You receive a text message stating that a parcel could not be delivered and that you need to click a link to reschedule the delivery. The link takes you to a fake website designed to steal your personal and financial information.

How to Avoid Smishing:

• Be wary of unsolicited text messages, especially those containing links or requests for sensitive information.
• Always navigate to official websites by typing the address into your browser, rather than clicking on links in text messages.

How to Recognise a Scam: Key Red Flags

Phishing and social engineering attacks are increasingly sophisticated, but there are still
some common signs that can help you spot them:

1. Unfamiliar Senders: If you receive an email, text message, or phone call from someone you don’t recognise, especially if they are asking for sensitive information, take a step back and evaluate the situation. Scammers often impersonate people you trust, so verify their identity before acting.
2. Suspicious Links: Hover over links in emails or messages before clicking them. This will reveal the actual URL you’re being directed to, which may be different from the displayed link. If the URL looks suspicious, don’t click it.
3. Spelling and Grammar Mistakes: Many phishing emails and messages are poorly written, with noticeable spelling and grammar errors. While some attackers have improved their writing skills, it’s still common to spot these mistakes as a sign of a scam.
4. Unusual Requests: Be cautious of emails, messages, or phone calls requesting urgent action, especially if they ask for personal or financial information. Always verify the request with the supposed sender through official channels.

Protecting Yourself and Your Business

While phishing and social engineering attacks continue to evolve, there are several proactive
steps you can take to protect yourself and your organisation:

1. Employee Training: Regularly train your employees on the latest phishing and social engineering tactics. Ensure they understand the importance of vigilance and encourage them to report suspicious activity.
2. Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA adds an extra layer of security, requiring users to provide two or more forms of authentication to access sensitive accounts. This can help prevent attackers from accessing accounts, even if they’ve stolen a password.
3. Regular Software Updates: Ensure that all systems and software are up to date with the latest security patches. Many phishing attacks exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software.
4. Incident Response Plan: Develop a robust incident response plan that outlines the steps to take if a phishing or social engineering attack occurs. This will help minimise damage and recover quickly from any breaches.
5. Email Filtering and Firewalls: Use advanced email filtering tools to block phishing emails before they reach your inbox.

Conclusion

Phishing and social engineering attacks continue to be among the most effective cybercriminal tactics because they exploit the most vulnerable part of any security system—human psychology. By recognising the signs of these scams and implementing proactive security measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these attacks.

As cyber threats continue to evolve, awareness and education are critical. The more you know about phishing and social engineering tactics, the better equipped you’ll be to spot the scam before it’s too late. Empower your team, stay vigilant, and take action to protect both your personal and business information from cybercriminals.

Photos by Bernd 📷 Dittrich Zanyar Ibrahim ThisisEngineering Todd Cravens  stephen momot on Unsplash

In today’s digital age, SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) face many of the same cybersecurity challenges as larger companies but often lack the resources to address them effectively. Building a robust cybersecurity culture is one of the most effective ways SMEs can safeguard their operations from cyber threats. This culture extends beyond simply having policies in place; it’s about embedding security into the very DNA of your organisation so that every employee, from top leadership to entry-level staff, understands their role in keeping the company secure.

A strong cybersecurity culture helps SMEs become more resilient in the face of evolving cyber threats. When all employees are committed to security best practices, it reduces the chance of falling victim to increasingly sophisticated attacks. It’s not just about securing devices and networks; a robust culture of security is about proactive vigilance, ongoing education, and creating an atmosphere where employees feel empowered to identify and report potential issues.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the steps needed to foster a cybersecurity culture within your SME, including ongoing training, leadership involvement, and creating a response plan. These measures will help ensure your business is more resilient to cyber threats.

Why Cybersecurity Culture Matters for SMEs

Creating a cybersecurity culture isn’t just about protecting sensitive data or meeting regulatory requirements; it’s about ensuring the longevity of your business. The reality is that SMEs are frequently targeted by cybercriminals because they often have fewer resources to defend themselves. According to the UK Government’s Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2024, 48% of SMEs reported experiencing a cybersecurity breach in the past 12 months, with the average cost of a breach totalling thousands of pounds. In addition to financial losses, these attacks can severely damage an SME’s reputation and disrupt business operations.

Given the increasing digitisation of business processes, SMEs cannot afford to ignore cybersecurity. The misconception that only large enterprises are targeted by cybercriminals is no longer valid. Many SMEs hold sensitive data that can be valuable to attackers, including customer information, financial data, and intellectual property. Cybercriminals often see smaller companies as easy targets because they are assumed to have weaker defences.

Moreover, cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving. What worked in terms of defence a year ago may no longer be effective today. From phishing scams to ransomware attacks, cybercriminals continuously adapt their tactics to exploit vulnerabilities in an organisation’s infrastructure. This means SMEs must build a culture where cybersecurity awareness is ingrained in every employee’s mindset, ensuring the entire workforce remains vigilant and proactive about new and emerging threats.

Building the Foundation: Leadership Involvement

The first step in fostering a cybersecurity culture is ensuring that leadership is fully engaged in the process. Leadership sets the tone for the rest of the organisation, and without their buy-in, it will be difficult to get employees to take cybersecurity seriously. In fact, the commitment of senior management is often the deciding factor in whether a cybersecurity initiative is successful.

1. Lead by Example

Leaders must demonstrate a commitment to cybersecurity by participating in training and adhering to the same security policies as everyone else. When employees see management taking security seriously, they are more likely to follow suit. Moreover, when leaders show that they, too, are subject to the same protocols and scrutiny, it reduces the perception of cybersecurity being a burdensome requirement imposed solely on lower-level employees.

For leadership, it’s essential to highlight how cybersecurity contributes to the company’s overall mission. For example, protecting sensitive customer data could be framed not only as a compliance obligation but also as a way to build trust and loyalty with customers. Additionally, security measures help protect the company from financial losses and reputational damage, which are critical to the business’s long-term sustainability. Leaders who emphasise this alignment between cybersecurity and business goals help reinforce its importance across the organisation.

2. Appoint a Cybersecurity Champion

If your SME doesn’t have the resources to hire a full-time Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), consider appointing a cybersecurity champion from within your organisation. This person will act as the point of contact for all security-related concerns, drive security initiatives, and help promote a culture of awareness. They can ensure that security is consistently discussed at meetings, initiate training opportunities, and spearhead efforts to improve company-wide adherence to cybersecurity protocols.

While your cybersecurity champion may not necessarily have deep technical expertise, their role is more about coordination and communication. They serve as the go-to person for employees with questions or concerns about cybersecurity and help reinforce security best practices in everyday business activities. Having someone in this role makes cybersecurity feel more accessible and reinforces the idea that everyone has a stake in the company’s security posture.

Employee Engagement: Ongoing Training and Education

One-off training sessions or annual security updates are no longer enough to keep employees aware of the latest threats. Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and so must your training initiatives. Ongoing education and engagement are essential to maintaining a cybersecurity culture. Regular training helps to address common human errors, such as falling for phishing scams or using weak passwords, which are frequently exploited by cybercriminals.

1. Tailor Your Training

The most effective training programmes are tailored to your specific industry and company structure. While generic training can raise awareness, training that is relevant to the threats your organisation faces will be more impactful. For example, if your SME handles sensitive financial information, training should focus on the types of cyber threats targeting the finance sector, such as phishing, social engineering, or ransomware. Tailoring the content makes the training more engaging and relevant, increasing the likelihood that employees will take it seriously.

It’s also important to take into account the varying levels of technical expertise within your team. While some employees may be well-versed in technology and security practices, others may not. Adjust your training accordingly, offering different levels of instruction to ensure that even those who aren’t tech-savvy can understand the risks and their role in maintaining security.

2. Make Training Interactive

Training doesn’t have to be boring. Interactive sessions, quizzes, and real-world simulations, such as phishing simulations, can help employees understand the risks and consequences of cybersecurity lapses in an engaging way. Many companies now offer gamified cybersecurity training, which makes learning about security fun and competitive. This approach increases retention of key lessons, as employees are more likely to remember scenarios they’ve actively participated in.

Phishing simulations are especially important, as phishing remains one of the most common and effective tactics used by cybercriminals. Sending mock phishing emails to employees and monitoring their responses allows you to identify weaknesses and provide additional training to those who need it. When employees are tested regularly, they are more likely to remain vigilant and sceptical of suspicious emails, reducing the risk of a successful attack.

3. Establish a Regular Training Schedule

Cybersecurity should be an ongoing conversation within your organisation. Consider holding quarterly or even monthly security training sessions to keep employees updated on the latest threats and best practices. Regularly review your training materials to ensure they address current threats and compliance requirements. Employees should also be reminded of the consequences of failing to adhere to security protocols, such as disciplinary action or the potential for a data breach

that could damage the business’s finances and reputation.

Training should be accessible, easy to understand, and practical. As threats evolve, new training content should reflect these changes. For example, emerging threats like quishing (QR code phishing) or supply chain attacks should be discussed in upcoming sessions. Make sure employees know that cybersecurity training isn’t a one-time event but a continual process aimed at keeping the business secure in an ever-changing digital landscape.

Foster an Open Reporting Culture

One of the biggest barriers to creating a cybersecurity culture is the fear employees may have of reporting mistakes. Whether it’s accidentally clicking on a phishing link or mishandling sensitive information, employees may hesitate to report incidents for fear of punishment or embarrassment. Unfortunately, this reluctance can allow small issues to spiral into major security breaches, which could have been mitigated with timely reporting.

1. Remove the Stigma Around Cybersecurity Incidents

To foster a cybersecurity culture, create a non-punitive reporting process. Emphasise that mistakes happen, and that the most important thing is to report incidents quickly so they can be addressed. This approach not only reduces the likelihood of an unreported breach but also encourages employees to be proactive in spotting and reporting potential vulnerabilities.

Create an environment where employees feel safe and supported when discussing cybersecurity. Consider adding anonymous reporting mechanisms, so employees can report incidents without fear of personal repercussions. By focusing on correcting mistakes rather than assigning blame, your SME can address risks proactively and reduce the likelihood of small errors snowballing into major security incidents.

2. Implement a Clear Reporting Process

Ensure that employees know exactly how to report security incidents, and make the process as simple as possible. Whether it’s a dedicated email address, an internal ticketing system, or a phone line, having a streamlined process ensures incidents are reported and addressed quickly. Encourage employees to report even minor concerns—what may seem insignificant to them could indicate a larger issue.

You should also ensure that employees are comfortable asking questions when they are unsure about the legitimacy of an email, link, or attachment. Having an accessible support structure where employees can confirm whether something is suspicious is vital for preventing security breaches. Remind employees that reporting suspicious activity, even if it turns out to be harmless, is far better than ignoring it altogether.

Incorporate Cybersecurity into Day-to-Day Operations

For cybersecurity to become part of your company’s culture, it must be incorporated into everyday activities. This doesn’t mean bogging employees down with complex security tasks, but rather making security a natural part of their workflow. When security becomes a habit rather than a burden, it becomes ingrained in the daily routine of your employees.

1. Automate Where Possible

Cybersecurity can be overwhelming, especially for employees who aren’t tech-savvy. To help integrate security into daily tasks, consider using tools that automate some of the more complicated aspects of cybersecurity. For example, password managers can help employees create and store strong, unique passwords without having to remember them, and multi-factor authentication (MFA) can add an extra layer of security without requiring much effort from the user.

In addition to password management and MFA, consider using automated tools that regularly scan your systems for vulnerabilities, ensuring that any weaknesses are identified and addressed before they can be exploited. Automated patch management systems, which update software as soon as security patches become available, can significantly reduce the risk of attacks that exploit outdated software. By automating key processes, you remove the burden from employees and reduce the risk of human error.

2. Security as a Conversation Topic

Security should be a regular agenda item in team meetings. Brief employees on new security initiatives, emerging threats, or any incidents that occurred in the wider industry. This not only keeps security top of mind but also helps normalise it as a critical business function. Discussing cybersecurity as part of normal business operations helps embed it into your company’s everyday processes.

Having a dedicated time for discussing security can also bring attention to industry-specific threats. If an SME operates in sectors like healthcare, finance, or e-commerce, the risks associated with breaches can be particularly high. Incorporating discussions around cybersecurity in day-to-day meetings ensures that employees remain aware of these risks and can act accordingly.

Develop a Comprehensive Incident Response Plan

No matter how strong your cybersecurity culture is, incidents will happen. The key is being prepared. A well-developed incident response plan is essential for quickly and effectively managing a breach. It provides clear guidance for the team, outlining the actions they need to take when a security incident occurs, which helps minimise damage.

1. Identify Your Critical Assets

Your incident response plan should begin by identifying the assets that are most critical to your business. These could include customer data, intellectual property, or operational systems. Once identified, you can create a priority list to help your team focus on what needs to be protected first in the event of a breach. Understanding your most valuable assets will enable you to tailor your incident response plan and ensure that the most critical parts of your business are protected.

In SMEs, critical assets can vary greatly depending on the industry. For instance, in a financial services SME, customer data and transactional systems will be key priorities. In contrast, for a retail SME, customer credit card data and e-commerce platforms may be the primary concern. Once these assets are identified, you can categorise the risks and assign appropriate security measures, ensuring that these high-priority elements are adequately safeguarded.

2. Outline Key Roles and Responsibilities

A clear incident response plan should assign specific roles to team members. Everyone should know who is responsible for what during a cybersecurity incident. This includes not only IT staff but also communication teams, HR, and leadership. Employees should also know whom to report to in the event of a breach.

The incident response team should be equipped with a plan that is tailored to the type of attack being experienced. For example, a ransomware attack may require different actions from a data breach. Key personnel should be trained on how to handle different scenarios, ensuring that the response is swift and effective. Additionally, outlining roles and responsibilities ahead of time ensures that there is no confusion during an actual event, and the team can act quickly to mitigate damage.

3. Create a Communication Plan

A communication plan is a critical part of incident response. This includes internal communication (informing employees about the breach and how it’s being handled) as well as external communication (notifying clients, partners, and regulators). Make sure your communication plan is clear, concise, and ready to be implemented at a moment’s notice. Be transparent about what is happening and provide reassurance that the incident is being managed.

Clear communication is also essential for maintaining customer trust. In the event of a breach, you must inform affected customers quickly and provide them with guidance on any actions they should take, such as changing passwords or monitoring accounts for suspicious activity. Transparency helps manage reputational risk and can help preserve client relationships even in the face of a cybersecurity incident.

4. Conduct Regular Drills

Incident response plans should be tested regularly. Conduct drills or simulations to ensure that all employees know their roles and can respond effectively. These drills should mimic real-life scenarios, such as a ransomware attack or a data breach, to help employees get used to the pressure of responding to an actual incident.

Regular drills allow you to identify weaknesses in your incident response plan, enabling you to make improvements before a real breach occurs. Simulations also give employees a better understanding of how incidents unfold, the decisions they may need to make, and how quickly they need to act to minimise damage. The more comfortable employees are with the process, the more efficiently they will respond during an actual incident.

Encourage Personal Cybersecurity Responsibility

While businesses can put countless policies, tools, and procedures in place, ultimately, it’s up to each individual employee to take responsibility for their own cybersecurity. Encouraging this personal responsibility is the final step in creating a cybersecurity culture. When employees understand that they play a crucial role in protecting company assets, they are more likely to stay vigilant and adopt good cybersecurity practices.

1. Promote Safe Personal Habits

Encourage employees to adopt good cybersecurity habits not just in the workplace but in their personal lives as well. This could include using strong, unique passwords for personal accounts, enabling MFA on social media accounts, or being mindful of the risks associated with sharing too much personal information online. When employees apply these practices in their personal lives, they are more likely to bring the same level of vigilance to the workplace.

Educating employees about the overlap between personal and work cybersecurity is essential. With remote and hybrid working environments, the lines between personal and professional devices and networks can blur. Ensuring that employees understand how their personal digital habits can affect the security of business data is key. Whether they are using their own devices for work or sharing company information across personal networks, they must adopt best practices in every aspect of their digital lives.

2. Reward Good Cybersecurity Behaviour

Incentivising good cybersecurity practices can further encourage a security-conscious culture. Whether it’s through a formal reward system or informal recognition, acknowledging employees who consistently demonstrate good security behaviour reinforces the importance of cybersecurity.

Reward systems can be simple yet effective. For example, recognising an employee who successfully identifies and reports a phishing attempt can encourage others to stay alert. Alternatively, offering small incentives for employees who complete cybersecurity training modules or contribute to the company’s security initiatives can also boost participation and engagement. By rewarding positive behaviours, you create an environment where employees feel motivated to contribute to the company’s security efforts.

Conclusion

Creating a cybersecurity culture in your SME is an ongoing process that requires commitment from all levels of the organisation. By involving leadership, providing ongoing training, fostering an open reporting culture, integrating security into daily operations, developing an incident response plan, and encouraging personal responsibility, you can build a culture where cybersecurity is a top priority.

In a world where cyber threats are constantly evolving, having a cybersecurity culture isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a business necessity. A well-trained, security-conscious workforce is your first line of defence against cybercriminals, helping to protect your SME from costly and potentially devastating cyberattacks. By embedding security into your company’s values and day-to-day operations, you’ll be well on your way to creating a more resilient and secure organisation.

We are here to help you as we appreciate there is a lot to think about! May we recommend your first step? Book a call and a demo so we can show you SOS Intelligence – we promise it will help you sleep easier at night.

Photos by John Schnobrich, Luca Bravo, Riccardo Annandale Dylan Gillis Alvaro Reyes Ariel 

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are no longer under the radar of cybercriminals. These businesses are often seen as attractive targets due to perceived weaker defences compared to large corporations. The consequences of a cyberattack can be devastating, from financial losses to long-lasting reputational damage. However, by adopting a proactive approach to cybersecurity, SMEs can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to such threats.

This blog outlines 10 essential cybersecurity best practices that every SME should implement. These actionable steps can help you strengthen your organisation’s cyber resilience, protect sensitive data, and ensure business continuity.

1. Employee Training and Awareness
The most common entry point for cyberattacks is not some sophisticated hacking tool but the employees themselves. Phishing, social engineering, and inadvertent downloads of malware all stem from human error, which is why employee training is critical. Cybercriminals know this and increasingly target SMEs through schemes that exploit untrained or unaware staff.

Action Steps:

• Conduct Regular Training: Training should not be a one-time affair. Cyber threats are constantly evolving, so your staff must receive up-to-date information about new scams and vulnerabilities. Tailor your training to different roles within your organisation. For example, your finance team may be more prone to business email compromise scams, while your marketing team may encounter phishing attempts through social media.
• Phishing Simulations: Consider running phishing simulations to test your staff’s response to phishing emails. This not only highlights potential areas for improvement but also makes employees more vigilant in their day-to-day activities.
• Clear Reporting Channels: Ensure that there are clear channels for reporting suspicious activity. Often, employees may be unsure of whom to contact or may be afraid of reporting a potential mistake. Encourage an open and blame-free environment where cybersecurity concerns are taken seriously.

In addition to this, fostering a company-wide culture that prioritises cybersecurity can reduce risks. When employees recognise their role in defending the company, they’re less likely to make mistakes that can lead to costly breaches.

2. Implement Strong Password Policies

Weak passwords are akin to leaving the front door to your business unlocked. Cybercriminals often use automated tools to guess passwords, known as brute force attacks, or simply gain access through poor password hygiene. For SMEs, password strength must be a cornerstone of your cybersecurity strategy.

Action Steps:

• Enforce Password Complexity: Require passwords to be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of upper- and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Simplicity is the enemy of security, and passwords like ‘123456’ or ‘password’ should never be allowed.
• Password Manager Implementation: Encourage the use of a password manager. These tools generate and store complex passwords securely, eliminating the need for employees to memorise multiple passwords or, worse, write them down.
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Two-factor authentication adds a second layer of security, often in the form of a one-time code sent to a mobile device. This ensures that even if a password is compromised, a second factor is required for access.

Furthermore, you should implement a policy that requires periodic password changes, especially for critical systems. Though some argue that frequent password changes can lead to poor practices (such as choosing weaker passwords), pairing this with MFA and using a password manager mitigates these risks.

3. Use Firewalls and Antivirus Software

Think of a firewall as your first layer of defence against external threats. It acts as a gatekeeper, monitoring incoming and outgoing network traffic and blocking potentially harmful data from entering your system. Paired with antivirus software, firewalls help ensure that malware and other malicious activities are stopped before they cause damage.

Action Steps:

• Set Up Network Firewalls: Ensure your company has a firewall in place to protect the network perimeter. It’s also important to configure internal firewalls to separate sensitive data and systems, reducing the potential damage if a breach occurs.
• Use Endpoint Protection: Equip all devices, from workstations to mobile devices, with endpoint security solutions. These solutions typically include antivirus, anti-malware, and firewall protections, which provide an additional security layer for individual devices.
• Regular Updates and Patching: Both firewalls and antivirus software need regular updates to keep up with new threats. Malware evolves constantly, and outdated security software can leave your systems vulnerable.

In addition to traditional firewalls, SMEs can also benefit from Web Application Firewalls (WAFs), especially if they host websites or web applications. These firewalls help protect against common web-based attacks such as SQL injections and cross-site scripting.

4. Regular Data Backups

Data loss can happen for many reasons—ransomware attacks, hardware failures, or even human error. When it does, the consequences can be dire, especially if your business relies on this data for daily operations. Having a robust backup strategy ensures that even if data is lost, your business can recover with minimal disruption.

Action Steps:

• Backup Frequency: Aim to back up your business-critical data daily. If daily backups aren’t feasible, establish a schedule that ensures minimal data loss in the event of a breach. Weekly full backups combined with daily incremental backups can offer a good balance between resource use and recovery needs.
• Offsite and Cloud Backups: It’s important to store backups in more than one location. Use both onsite (e.g., external hard drives) and offsite solutions, such as cloud-based storage, to ensure redundancy. Cloud backups are particularly useful as they offer rapid recovery options and are often encrypted for extra security.
• Test Your Backups: Regularly test your backups by performing a full restoration to ensure they’re functioning properly. A backup is only useful if it can be restored quickly and completely in the event of a disaster.

An often overlooked aspect of the backup strategy is ensuring that the backup data itself is secure. Implement encryption and access controls to ensure that even if the backup is compromised, the data cannot be easily accessed by attackers.

5. Keep Software and Systems Updated

Outdated software is a hacker’s dream. Unpatched vulnerabilities provide cybercriminals with an easy way into your systems, making regular software updates one of the most basic but effective ways to enhance your security posture. For SMEs, who may not have the resources for dedicated IT staff, this is especially important.

Action Steps:

• Automate Software Updates: Enable automatic updates for all software, including operating systems, web browsers, and applications. This ensures that your systems are always protected against the latest threats.
• Patch Management Strategy: Implement a formal patch management process to track and apply critical updates. This includes not only operating systems but also third-party applications, plugins, and hardware firmware.
• Update Legacy Systems: If your business relies on legacy systems that are no longer supported by the vendor, consider replacing them or isolating them from the rest of the network. Unsupported systems are particularly vulnerable because they no longer receive security patches.

Furthermore, it’s important to stay informed about vulnerabilities in widely used software. Cybercriminals are quick to exploit known vulnerabilities in popular software like Microsoft Office or Adobe products, so prompt patching is key to mitigating these risks.

6. Encrypt Sensitive Data

Encryption is a fundamental tool for protecting your company’s sensitive information. Whether it’s customer data, financial records, or intellectual property, encryption ensures that even if your data falls into the wrong hands, it cannot be easily read or misused.

Action Steps:

• Full-Disk Encryption: Implement full-disk encryption on all company devices, including laptops and mobile phones. This ensures that if a device is lost or stolen, the data remains inaccessible without the correct decryption key.
• Encrypt Data in Transit and at Rest: Use encryption protocols such as SSL/TLS to protect data being transmitted over the internet, whether via email, cloud storage, or internal networks. Similarly, ensure that data stored on servers or backup systems is encrypted.
• Encryption Key Management: Properly manage your encryption keys, ensuring they are securely stored and regularly rotated. A compromised key can render your encryption useless, so keys must be handled with care.

In addition to encrypting sensitive business data, SMEs should also consider encrypting employee communications. Using secure email services or encrypted messaging platforms can protect sensitive conversations from being intercepted by attackers.

7. Develop an Incident Response Plan

No cybersecurity strategy is complete without an incident response plan. This plan outlines the steps your business will take in the event of a cyberattack or data breach, ensuring that your team can act swiftly to mitigate damage and recover quickly.

Action Steps:

• Document Roles and Responsibilities: Your incident response plan should clearly define the roles and responsibilities of key personnel during a cybersecurity incident. This includes who will communicate with stakeholders, who will handle technical remediation, and who will contact law enforcement if necessary.
• Regular Drills: Run regular incident response drills to simulate real-life cyberattacks. This helps employees become familiar with their roles and responsibilities during an incident, reducing panic and confusion when a real attack occurs.
• Post-Incident Review: After an incident has been resolved, conduct a post-mortem analysis to identify what went wrong, what was handled well, and how your response plan can be improved in the future.

A well-prepared incident response plan can be the difference between a minor incident and a full-scale disaster. Regular updates and testing of the plan are crucial to ensure it remains effective as new threats emerge.

8. Secure Mobile Devices

Mobile devices have become indispensable tools for business, but they also pose significant security risks. SMEs need to ensure that mobile devices used for work purposes are properly secured, especially if employees are working remotely or using personal devices for work tasks.

Action Steps:

• Implement Mobile Device Management (MDM): Use an MDM solution to enforce security policies on all mobile devices used within the organisation. This includes requiring password protection, encrypting data, and enabling remote wipe functionality.
• Restrict Access to Sensitive Data: Ensure that sensitive data can only be accessed through secure channels, such as VPNs or dedicated apps, rather than via unsecured mobile browsers or public Wi-Fi networks.
• Monitor for Unauthorised Apps: Regularly review the apps installed on work devices to ensure that no unauthorised or potentially malicious software is present. Encourage employees to only download apps from trusted sources.

The risks associated with mobile devices are particularly high due to the ease with which they can be lost or stolen. By implementing strong security policies, SMEs can mitigate these risks and ensure that mobile devices remain a secure extension of their IT infrastructure.

9. Control Access to Data

Not every employee needs access to every piece of company data. By limiting access based on roles and responsibilities, you can minimise the risk of insider threats and reduce the likelihood of accidental data breaches. This principle, known as the principle of least privilege (PoLP), ensures that employees can only access the information necessary to perform their jobs.

Action Steps:

• Implement Role-Based Access Controls (RBAC): Use RBAC to restrict access to sensitive data based on job function. For example, only finance personnel should have access to financial records, and only HR should have access to employee information.
• Monitor Access Logs: Regularly review access logs to track who is accessing sensitive data and when. This can help you detect unusual or unauthorised access attempts and act quickly to mitigate potential risks.
• Review and Update Permissions Regularly: Conduct regular audits of employee access privileges to ensure that permissions are still relevant. As employees change roles or leave the company, their access to sensitive data should be adjusted accordingly.

In addition to RBAC, SMEs can benefit from using multifactor authentication (MFA) to secure access to sensitive data. This ensures that even if login credentials are compromised, additional verification is required before data can be accessed.

10. Monitor and Audit Systems Regularly

A strong cybersecurity posture isn’t something you achieve once—it requires continuous monitoring and regular auditing. Proactively monitoring your systems for suspicious activity helps you detect potential threats before they cause significant damage. Regular audits, meanwhile, allow you to assess the effectiveness of your security controls and identify areas for improvement.

Action Steps:

• Set Up Automated Monitoring Tools: Use automated tools to monitor network traffic, detect unusual behaviour, and flag potential threats in real-time. This could include everything from monitoring login attempts to tracking changes in file integrity.
• Conduct Regular Cybersecurity Audits: Schedule periodic audits of your entire IT infrastructure to assess your security defences. These audits should evaluate whether your firewalls, encryption protocols and other controls are up to date and functioning as intended.
• Review Audit Logs: Keep detailed audit logs of all significant system events, including access to sensitive data, configuration changes, and software updates. These logs provide valuable information in the event of a breach and can help you identify exactly what went wrong.

By combining continuous monitoring with regular audits, SMEs can stay one step ahead of cyber threats. Rather than reacting to attacks after they occur, proactive monitoring allows businesses to identify and mitigate risks before they cause harm.

Implementing these 10 cybersecurity best practices is essential for protecting your SME against the ever-growing range of cyber threats. From employee training and strong password policies to encryption and incident response planning, these steps will go a long way in ensuring the security of your business data and systems.

While no security system is foolproof, taking proactive measures can drastically reduce your vulnerability to cyberattacks. By fostering a culture of cybersecurity and staying vigilant, you can minimise risks and focus on what matters most: growing your business.

Need Help?

If you don’t know about a threat, you cannot act. SOS Intelligence can be your eyes and ears on the dark web, providing digital risk monitoring to make sure you have the right intelligence, when you need it, to take action to protect your business.

Photos by Andrea De Santis, Ofspace LLC, rc.xyz NFT gallery, Fusion Medical Animation, Photo by Luke Chesser, William Hook, Connor Williams, Samsung Memory, ThisisEngineering on Unsplash.

In today’s fast-paced digital age, businesses are more connected than ever before. While this connectivity has created countless growth opportunities, it has also introduced new vulnerabilities. Cyber threats have evolved in sophistication, making them a critical concern for businesses of all sizes.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are particularly attractive targets for cybercriminals. Unlike larger corporations, which often have dedicated security teams and robust defences in place, SMEs frequently lack the resources to protect themselves adequately. This perception of vulnerability makes them an enticing target for attackers.

According to the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), cybercrime costs the UK economy around £4.5 billion annually, with the average cost of an attack on a small business estimated to be around £1,300 per victim. For an SME, a cyberattack can lead to not only significant financial losses but also loss of customer trust, reputational damage, and even the risk of going out of business.

As a business owner, it’s essential to be aware of the common types of cyber threats and how to protect your business. In this blog, we’ll explore the top five cyber threats facing SMEs, share real-world examples of businesses that have been impacted, and provide actionable tips on how to identify and prevent these attacks.

1. Phishing Attacks

What is Phishing?

Phishing is a form of social engineering that involves cybercriminals pretending to be trusted entities to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information such as passwords, bank details, or personal data. These attacks are most commonly conducted via email but can also occur through text messages (smishing) or phone calls (vishing).  When such attacks are targeted at a specific person within a company, often someone in a senior or sensitive role, they are referred to as spear phishing.

Phishing emails often contain malicious links or attachments. When an unsuspecting employee clicks on a link or downloads an attachment, they might inadvertently provide access to sensitive company data or install malware on their device.

Real-Life Example: The WADA Attack

In 2016, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) became the target of a sophisticated phishing attack. Hackers posed as WADA officials and tricked employees into revealing login credentials. These credentials were then used to access confidential athlete information, which was subsequently leaked. The damage caused by this breach not only harmed WADA’s reputation but also disrupted trust in global anti-doping efforts.

How to Identify Phishing:

• Suspicious Email Addresses: Phishing emails may appear to come from legitimate sources, but a close inspection of the sender’s email address often reveals small inconsistencies, such as an extra character or unusual domain name.
• Urgency and Fear Tactics: Many phishing emails create a sense of urgency or fear. For example, they may claim your account will be suspended unless you take immediate action.
• Unexpected Attachments or Links: Phishing emails may ask recipients to open attachments or click on links. Always hover over links to verify their destination before clicking.

How to Protect Your SME:

• Implement Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide two forms of identification before accessing accounts. This reduces the risk of compromised passwords.
• Ongoing Employee Training: Regularly educate your employees about the risks of phishing. Make sure they know how to identify suspicious emails and what to do if they receive one.
• Advanced Email Security: Use email filtering tools that block or flag suspicious messages before they reach your employees’ inboxes.

2. Ransomware

What is Ransomware?

Ransomware is a type of malicious software that locks or encrypts a victim’s data, rendering it inaccessible until a ransom is paid. Cybercriminals typically demand payment in cryptocurrencies, which are harder to trace, and often provide a tight deadline for payment to pressure victims.

For SMEs, ransomware can be devastating. In addition to the ransom itself, businesses can face operational downtime, loss of sensitive data, and a hit to their reputation. Moreover, there is no guarantee that paying the ransom will lead to the recovery of your data.

In recent years, the majority of ransomware threat actors have moved to a double extortion method, whereby not only do they encrypt your data, but they also threaten to release it to the public through their victim-shaming blogs.  We are now also beginning to see instances where threat actors rely solely on this threat of data publication, rather than data encryption.

Real-Life Example: The WannaCry Attack

In 2017, the WannaCry ransomware attack swept across the globe, affecting more than 200,000 computers in over 150 countries. One of the most notable victims was the NHS in the UK, which faced widespread disruption as critical medical systems became inoperable. WannaCry exploited a vulnerability in older versions of Microsoft Windows, and while a patch had been released, many organisations had not yet applied it.

The total financial impact of WannaCry was estimated to be in the billions, with businesses around the world incurring significant downtime and recovery costs.

How to Identify a Ransomware Attack:

• Files Become Inaccessible: One of the most obvious signs of a ransomware attack is that you are suddenly unable to access your files or data.
• Ransom Note: Ransomware attacks often display a message explaining that your files have been encrypted and demanding payment for their release.
• Unusual Network Activity: You may notice strange spikes in network traffic as ransomware spreads through your system, attempting to encrypt all connected devices.

How to Protect Your SME:

• Backup Critical Data: Regularly back up your data and ensure that backups are stored offline or in a secure cloud service. This way, if a ransomware attack occurs, you can restore your data without paying the ransom.
• Patch and Update Software: Ensure all systems and software are up-to-date. Many ransomware attacks exploit known vulnerabilities that can be patched through regular updates.
• Endpoint Security Solutions: Install advanced antivirus and anti-malware software that can detect and block ransomware before it causes damage.

3. Malware

What is Malware?

Malware is an umbrella term used to describe any malicious software designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorised access to a computer system. Types of malware include viruses, worms, trojans, spyware, and adware.

Once malware infiltrates a system, it can steal data, monitor user activity, install additional harmful software, or even render systems inoperable. For SMEs, a malware attack can result in lost productivity, compromised customer data, and long-term damage to your brand’s reputation.

Real-Life Example: The NotPetya Attack

NotPetya was initially thought to be ransomware, but its true intent was far more destructive. In June 2017, the malware spread across organisations globally, severely impacting businesses like shipping giant Maersk, which faced significant operational downtime and financial losses as its systems were brought to a halt. The attack encrypted critical files and disrupted supply chains, costing Maersk an estimated £300 million.

NotPetya also highlights another significant cyber-security concern: supply-chain attacks.  The malware had originated from the Ukrainian company Intellect Service, which supplied tax software.  Threat actors breached the company and configured their software updater to download the malware to anyone using the software, which occurred when the latest software update was pushed.  This highlights the need to properly consider not only your risk but third-party risk as well.

How to Identify Malware:

• Sluggish Performance: If your computers or network are unusually slow, this could be a sign that malware is consuming system resources.
• Pop-Up Ads: Malware infections are often accompanied by a barrage of unwanted pop-up ads, even when you’re not browsing the web.
• System Crashes: Frequent crashes or the appearance of the “blue screen of death” could indicate that your system has been compromised.

How to Protect Your SME:

• Install and Update Antivirus Software: Ensure that all company devices are equipped with up-to-date antivirus software. Schedule regular scans to identify and remove malware.
• Limit Software Downloads: Only allow trusted employees to install or download software to prevent the introduction of malware from suspicious sources.
• Monitor Network Traffic: Keep an eye on your network for unusual spikes in data usage, which could be a sign of malware communicating with external servers.

4. Insider Threats

What are Insider Threats?

Insider threats come from within your organisation and are caused by employees, contractors, or anyone with legitimate access to your systems. These individuals can either intentionally or unintentionally compromise your data and security. Insider threats can be difficult to detect because they exploit trusted access.

Real-Life Example: Tesla’s Insider Sabotage

In 2018, Tesla faced an insider threat when a disgruntled employee deliberately sabotaged the company’s systems. The employee altered the company’s manufacturing operating system and leaked confidential data to third parties. Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, publicly confirmed the damage caused by the incident, which affected the company’s operations and intellectual property.

How to Identify Insider Threats:

• Unusual Access Patterns: If an employee is accessing files or systems they don’t usually use, this could be a sign of an insider threat.
• Data Downloads: Sudden spikes in data downloads, especially involving sensitive information, can indicate malicious activity.
• Employee Behaviour: Employees exhibiting signs of dissatisfaction or frustration could potentially become insider threats.

How to Protect Your SME:

• Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): Limit access to data based on an employee’s role and responsibilities. Employees should only have access to the information necessary for their job.
• Regular Audits: Conduct routine audits of system access and file downloads. This can help identify unusual patterns of behaviour that may indicate an insider threat.
• Encourage Employee Reporting: Create a culture where employees feel comfortable reporting suspicious behaviour, without fear of retribution.

5. Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Attacks

What is a DDoS Attack?

A Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack occurs when multiple compromised systems flood a target, such as a website or online service, with an overwhelming amount of traffic. The sheer volume of requests causes the target to become slow, unresponsive, or even crash altogether.

While DDoS attacks don’t typically result in data theft, they can cause significant operational disruptions. For SMEs that rely on online services, even a temporary outage can lead to lost revenue, frustrated customers, and long-term reputational damage.

Real-Life Example: The Dyn DNS Attack

In 2016, Dyn, a major provider of DNS services, was hit by a massive DDoS attack that affected major websites such as Twitter, Spotify, and Netflix. The attack, which was conducted using a botnet made up of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, disrupted services for several hours, highlighting the vulnerability of DNS infrastructure and the far-reaching impact of DDoS attacks.

How to Identify a DDoS Attack:

• Slow or Unresponsive Website: If your website becomes unusually slow or users report difficulty accessing it, this could be the result of a DDoS attack.
• Spike in Traffic: A sudden and unexpected increase in traffic, especially if it comes from unknown or foreign sources, is a common indicator of a DDoS attack.
• Service Outages: Repeated service interruptions or crashes can point to a sustained DDoS assault.

How to Protect Your SME:

• Use a CDN: Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) distribute traffic across multiple servers, reducing the impact of DDoS attacks by ensuring that no single server is overwhelmed.
• Invest in DDoS Mitigation Services: There are dedicated DDoS mitigation tools and services that can detect abnormal traffic patterns and block malicious requests before they reach your network.
• Firewalls and Load Balancers: Use Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) and load balancers to filter incoming traffic, block malicious IP addresses, and distribute the load more effectively across servers.

Conclusion: Building a Resilient Cybersecurity Strategy

The risks of cyberattacks are real, and for SMEs, the consequences can be especially severe. By understanding the top cyber threats—phishing, ransomware, malware, insider threats, and DDoS attacks—business owners can take proactive steps to secure their operations.

Cybersecurity is not just a technical issue but a fundamental part of business resilience. Implementing strong security measures, providing ongoing employee training, and fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness will go a long way in reducing the risk of cyberattacks.

Ultimately, it’s not about if your business will be targeted but when. Taking the time to assess your vulnerabilities and enhance your security protocols now will save you time, money, and reputation in the long run. The best time to protect your business is today.

Read our first post in this series here > What every SME needs to know.

Need Help?

If you don’t know about a threat, you cannot act. SOS Intelligence can be your eyes and ears on the dark web, providing digital risk monitoring to make sure you have the right intelligence, when you need it, to take action to protect your business. Click here to book a demo.

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